At Floor King, with showrooms in Austin, Georgetown, and San Marcos, TX, we understand that every detail counts when it comes to creating a beautiful, durable, and lasting floor. One question we often hear from customers is: does the width of hardwood flooring really matter? After over 30 years as a family-owned business, we know the answer is a resounding yes. Choosing the right width for hardwood flooring can impact everything from the visual effect of a room to its resale value. Here’s why the width of hardwood planks matters and how to decide which is best for your home.
Understanding Hardwood Plank Widths
The Different Width Options
Hardwood flooring generally comes in three primary width categories:
- Narrow Planks: Typically between 2 to 3 inches wide, these traditional-style planks have been around for decades and give a classic look.
- Wide Planks: Usually 5 to 12 inches wide, wide planks have gained popularity due to their spacious, contemporary look.
- Mixed-Width Planks: Combining multiple plank sizes, this option offers a unique, custom appearance.
Each width has its own charm, but choosing the right one depends on your design preferences, the size of your space, and even the type of wood used.
Does Room Size Affect Plank Width Choice?
Making Small Spaces Look Bigger
The width of your hardwood planks can dramatically impact the perception of room size. Narrow planks often work well in smaller rooms, as they can make the space appear more proportional and balanced. When narrow planks are installed, the extra seams add texture and depth, which can help break up the space and make it feel cozier without feeling cramped.
Creating an Open and Spacious Feel in Larger Rooms
Wide planks, on the other hand, work beautifully in larger spaces, where they create a seamless, open, and airy feel. With fewer seams, wide planks have a more continuous look, which can make a room feel more expansive and less cluttered. In open-concept layouts, wide planks add sophistication by enhancing the room’s spaciousness and elegance.
Aesthetic Implications: Which Style Suits Your Home?
Classic vs. Contemporary
If you're drawn to traditional and rustic styles, narrow planks provide a timeless feel. This option has been widely used for generations, especially in heritage homes. However, if you prefer a more modern, luxurious aesthetic, wide planks may be your go-to. This style has become increasingly popular as homeowners seek to create a spacious, contemporary look. The fewer seams and bold width of wide planks give the room a more minimalist and streamlined appearance, making it a great choice for modern interiors.
Mixed Widths for a Unique Look
For a one-of-a-kind look, consider mixed-width planks. This trend uses planks of varying widths to create a distinctive design with added character and interest. This look can suit various home styles, from rustic to modern farmhouse, and helps balance rooms that feel too large or too small by introducing visual variety.
Practicality: Maintenance and Expansion
Stability and Expansion Considerations
Wood naturally expands and contracts with humidity changes, so it’s essential to consider your home’s climate when choosing plank width. Narrow planks tend to be more stable in regions with fluctuating temperatures, as their smaller width can better accommodate movement without gaps. This factor is particularly relevant in Texas, where the climate can swing between dry and humid.
Maintenance and Repairs
Narrow planks may require more seams and edges to be cleaned compared to wider planks. However, wide planks—while requiring fewer seams—can show more movement between boards during seasonal temperature and humidity shifts. Mixed-width floors can provide a nice balance between these considerations, offering both the aesthetic variety and practical benefits of varied plank sizes.
Which Hardwood Width Fits Your Texas Home?
At Floor King, we encourage our customers to consider not only their design preferences but also their lifestyle and Texas climate. In Austin, Georgetown, and San Marcos, many homes feature large open layouts where wide planks shine. However, if you’re working with a smaller room or traditional home design, narrow or mixed-width options could suit your needs better. Ultimately, choosing the right width is about balancing beauty and practicality.
Visit Floor King to See the Options in Person
With over three decades of expertise as a family-owned and operated flooring store, Floor King knows that your flooring choice is about more than just appearance—it’s about creating a space that feels like home. Whether you're considering narrow, wide, or mixed-width hardwood floors, we invite you to visit one of our showrooms in Austin, Georgetown, or San Marcos to see our wide selection and chat with our experienced team. Let us help you find the perfect fit for your Texas home!
